I would like to restore the wood finish in my home (built in the 50's). The previous owners painted over the wood ceilings, walls, trim, doors, cabinets, and beams :thumbdn: . I've successfully restored some cabinet doors using what I gather to be some sort of caustic solvent. But I want more! The wood was painted within the last 10 years so there's no lead and only one coat (or enough to cover). Can I safely remove paint from ceiling beams and other areas in the house using a chemical stripper? Or should I physically remove the paint with a sander? Any feedback would be appreciated...

Can somebody tell me how long paint in the can lasts. I bought some exterior paint this summer and plan on using the 4 unopened cans next summer. How long can this paint last in an unopened can? Also how about paint in a can that has already been opened? I have some paint left from about 3 years ago that has been opened that I plan using soon. :D Thanks